Issuu

Pequannock

& Pompton Plains

NEWLY PUBLISHED NOVELIST

JIM SARTO

A PHOTOGRAPHER’S VISION

MAUREEN BRAIN

Perfecting Teatime

Michael Flatt

Welcome, Spring!

I think I can say without a doubt that we are all excited for spring and the anticipation of our new Pompton Valley Rail Trail opening. While we await the final connecting bridge and official opening, be sure to take a stroll and enjoy the hundreds of varieties of trees and shrubs listed. Make a day of it and stop for a bite along the way. More details and a feature story are coming as we await the official grand opening.

Ever wonder what our School Board does and how you can help? Check out this month’s Q&A to learn more, meet the newest elected members and get involved. Spring has sprung, and it’s the perfect time to pop in for a special luncheon and a spot of tea. High SocieTea House is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy

this fabulous restaurant. It’s also just minutes from the Pompton Valley Rail Trail if you’d like to make a day of it.

Read more about resident Jim Sarto’s dream coming to fruition as the author of “Is School Really Out for the Summer?”—a novel filled with memories and anecdotes you will surely recognize from town. I’m super excited to share this story; his book No. 2 is already on the horizon.

You have already seen Maureen Brain’s fabulous photographs around town in our Photo Op monthly features. I hope you enjoy her behind-the-scenes story and her reminder to “always look up” as much as I do! Her pictures and inspirational messages are such a blessing. Spring is in the air and the birds are chirping—the perfect time for my fellow bird lovers to check out our newest business in town, The Birding Store, where you’ll find everything from the perfect seed blend to birdhouses and more.

Lastly, this month’s Photo Op is our editors’ choice from favorite pics that Maureen Brain has taken—an absolutely magical view of the perfect rainbow over Town Hall. So fitting for our beautiful community.

I hope this month’s edition inspires you! We love hearing your rave reviews. Our writers and photographers are over-the-moon thrilled bringing you these heartfelt stories and photographs and equally thrilled hearing the pure joy our stories and pictures bring. Keep sharing your ideas, love and photos with us. Be sure to follow us @pequannockmagazine.com on Facebook and Instagram.

Donna Fillweber Publisher

Pequannock

& Pompton Plains MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher

Donna Fillweber

Writers

Maureen Brain

Antonietta Henry

Angela Kohle

Dan Piccoli

Mary Shumeyko

Photographers

Antonietta Henry

Dan Piccoli

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

VP, Group Publisher, Regional

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Executive Editor

Richard Laliberte

Associate Editor

Sophia Carlisle

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager

Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate

Griff Dowden

Pequannock & Pompton Plains Magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Pequannock Township, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAN PICCOLI

Coming Trail Attractions

You’ll find these features along the new Pompton Valley Rail Trail.

If you haven’t heard, the Pompton Valley Rail Trail is officially opening soon! Make a day of it and take note of attractions you’ll find along the way. Among them:

NATIVE PLANTS

Here’s a list of various species and the number of each being established along the trail.

Ilex opaca (American Holly) 301 Ilex verticillata (Red Sprite) 320

Juniperus virginiana (Emerald Green) 5

Juniperus virginiana (Emerald Sentinel) 274

Acer freemanii (Armstrong) 86 Itea virginica 225

Myrica pennsylvanica (Bayberry) 264

Juniperus virginiana (Eastern Red Cedar) 9

Amelanchier laevis (Serviceberry) 60 Hydrangea quercifolia 248 Cornus rutcan (Constellation) 287 Celtis occidentalis 14

Liriodendron tulipifera 13

Ilex verticillata (Winter Red) 17 Amsonia (Blue Ice) 365

Bouteloua curtipendula 161 Sporobolus heterolepus 539

Carex pensylvanica 1007

Panicum virgatum (Shenandoah) 42

Carpinus caroliniana 6

Liquidambar styraciflua (Rotundiloba) 20

Betula nigra 3

Guiding Local Learning

How the Board of Education works—and how you can stay connected to district schools

BY ANGELA TETA KOHLE

INTERVIEW WITH BOE LEADERS

Board of Education members include (front, from left) Danielle Esposito, Michael Portas, Brian Senyk, (back, from left) Tina Iaccheo, Greg MacSweeney, Sam Ciresi, Joe Blumert, Timothy Gitin, Cara Shenton and Vincent Pompeyo.

The Pequannock Township Board of Education (BOE) plays an important role in what might be considered the heart of any community: local schools. To learn more about the functions of the board, we posed questions to Brian Senyk, BOE president; Danielle Esposito, BOE vice president; and Dr. Michael Portas, Pequannock Township superintendent of schools.

What is the function of the Board of Education?

The Board of Education does not run the Pequannock Township School District directly. The superintendent runs the school district based on his background and training. We supervise and evaluate the superintendent and provide oversight, input from the community and guidance when needed. We are the voice of the community with regard to the educational experience in Pequannock Township.

What is the BOE’s role with regard to district policy?

We define the parameters within which the superintendent works. We ensure that the district is well-run through the creation and updating of policies, which serve as a guide to the superintendent and provide direction, a basis for decision-making and an imperative for action. Every decision we make and everything we do is to promote a positive educational experience for all students in the district.

How do you monitor students’ academic progress?

Through data. The superintendent receives data from school principals regularly and presents it to us. We analyze the data, look for trends and make informed decisions based on the needs we see. One recent example involved concerns about math scores. We made the decision to focus on offering specific professional development for our math teachers to address the issues that students were having. We have already seen progress in some areas and hope to see more in 2025.

How do you stay informed about student activities in school?

We receive reports from the administration about student activities. Also, we have three BOE student representatives from the high school who keep us informed on PTHS students’ opinions and activities. They share about sporting events, club activities, fundraisers, music and theater programs, and individual student accomplishments. Also, most of us have children in the district. We are active in the community and enjoy attending many school functions and activities.

“We take [the public’s] trust in us and our responsibilities very seriously, and we always put the kids’ needs first.”

- Brian Senyk, BOE president

How should a member of the community voice a concern about their child’s educational experience?

What kind of training do Board of Education members receive?

The New Jersey School Boards Association provides us a field representative who helps us schedule training based on the needs we see in our district and trends that are happening in the state. We attend the NJSBA conference every October. In addition, we participate in two board retreats, one each in February and August. The retreats are held in the PTHS cafeteria and are open to the public.

Chain of command. We are always happy to talk to and listen to any community member about concerns or questions they may have. However, we will always encourage community members to follow the chain of command, beginning with the classroom teacher and progressing through the hierarchy. The way to have an issue addressed is to first contact the person who is closest to the problem. When the chain of command is used properly, it improves communication and facilitates a solution to the issue. Community members are also welcome to attend BOE meetings.

When and where are board meetings held?

There are two meetings a month, held in the PTHS cafeteria; both meetings are open to the public. The dates are posted on the Pequannock Township BOE website. The first meeting of the month is a workshop meeting in which we discuss issues but do not vote on anything. At the second meeting, we take action by voting on the resolutions discussed at the first meeting and/or at board committee meetings.

Brian Senyk concluded by saying, “People vote for us with the hope that we are there to help their kids get the best education we can offer. We take their trust in us and our responsibilities very seriously, and we always put the kids’ needs first.”

Angela Teta Kohle, retired after 35 years of teaching, lives in Pequannock. She enjoys volunteering at her church, traveling, reading, baking, walking and working for the family business.

Front, from left: Emily and Caitlin Zegler, student representatives to the Board of Education, with (back, from left) board members Brian Senyk and Danielle Esposito.

A Perfect Spot of Tea

Michael Flatt of High SocieTea House offers a place to reclaim the lost art of conversation

Scones, tea sandwiches and lemon curd, oh my! If you’re familiar with such menu items, then you know the joys of a lingering afternoon tea.

If you’re lucky, you’ve enjoyed tea service at High SocieTea House in Wayne. It’s located at 20 Old Newark Pompton Turnpike in a charming historic building over 100 years old, and is owned by the even more charming Michael Flatt.

Flatt’s attention to detail and topnotch service make for seatings that are never rushed and, like the food, an experience to be savored. “A meal at the teahouse is a chance to engage in the lost art of conversation,” says Flatt.

Tea services are meant to be enjoyed and typically last two hours. The

BY ANTONIETTA HENRY

teahouse is open Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Reservations are highly encouraged, especially on the weekends, and are taken by phone or in person, reinforcing the teahouse’s personal touch.

Besides an extensive tea menu of over 50 varieties, the food is farm-to-table. Flatt shops at local farm markets for fresh ingredients, raises chickens in nearby Stockholm for eggs and ensures menu items are seasonal.

Classic favorites are available yearround, including tomato basil soup; broccoli cheddar quiche; chicken salad with apples; cucumber, chive and cream cheese sandwiches; artichoke and parmesan spread on baguettes; and

caramel scones, to name a few.

Carol Varga, head kitchen manager, helps create the heavenly scents that greet you when walking through the teahouse doors. The shop boasts a lovely front gift shop with seasonal items as well as scone mix for purchase.

Piping hot pots of delicious teas are at the ready for every service, as well as lemon curd and clotted cream. Stop in for a simple Light Tea, Princess Tea, High Tea or, most popular, Queen’s Tea—quiche with soup or salad, two scones, assorted savories, sweets and a plated dessert.

The intimate indoor space has 10 tables. In warmer months, rocking chairs and small café tables for two are set up on the porch for tea and a scone or light fare.

“There are so many moving parts to High SocieTea, and I’m so grateful to everyone.”

- Michael Flatt

Persevering Through Challenges

The teahouse will celebrate 21 years of business in May. Flatt has been a part of the establishment since 2012, but his career path was unexpected.

High SocieTea House was first opened in 2004 by Bernadette Solari, a family friend of Flatt’s. Solari’s friends Barbara and Colleen also helped run the teahouse, which met with rave reviews.

Flatt attended Roman Academy of Beauty in Hawthorne at the time and, with a little coaxing by Solari, began waiting tables in 2012. He became kitchen manager the following year, learned how to shop for food and prep

for tea service and eventually got promoted to front-end manager.

Flatt enjoyed working with other friends, such as managers Gabriella and Nick, and adored the family feel. Flatt’s cousin Holly Clancy, current assistant manager, began in 2014 and his mother, current manager Laura Rikowich, began in 2015. Working with cherished family members is special to Flatt. “I couldn’t ask for better coworkers,” he says.

After graduating cosmetology school, Flatt realized his path was heading in a different direction. He took over High SocieTea House when Solari retired in 2020.

Flatt faced the pandemic as a new business owner. To cope with the period’s rapid changes, the teahouse offered picnic boxes for pick-up only.

In 2021, Flatt held a soft opening in the back parking lot under tents for what was fondly referred to as Michael’s Tea Garden. Patrons were thrilled to be back!

Flatt reflects on those who stepped in to help him. “My parent’s neighbor, Linda Bounocore, whom I consider an aunt, came in to save the day by helping in the kitchen when I lost many of the original staff postpandemic,” he says. “There are so many moving parts to High SocieTea, and I’m so grateful to everyone.”

Opposite page: Linda Buonocore and Laura Rikowich enjoy afternoon tea.

Right: Tea for two at High SocieTea House.

Connected to the Community

The teahouse has been brewing up delicious dishes and events since that soft opening. Flatt prides himself on special events such as Mother’s Day teas, Valentine teas with a harpist, Christmas Caroling by Candlelight and Cookies with Santa. Popular among customers, such events are by reservation and book up in advance. Seatings are typically a 10 a.m. brunch, a 1 p.m. lunch and a 4 p.m. dinner. “Customers really enjoy spending special occasions at the teahouse,” says Flatt.

The teahouse is a perfect setting for a party or shower as well. The dining room seats up to 50 guests—a perfect intimate

space. “Over the years, we have witnessed everything from a small wedding to bridal and baby showers, even guests sharing pregnancy announcements,” Flatt says. “Customers and staff are like family.”

Although the location is technically Wayne, if you live in Pequannock Township, Old Newark Pompton Turnpike truly feels like an extension of our town. Many young teahouse employees are Pequannock residents/ students, and several businesses and organizations in town visit the teahouse for special meetings and events throughout the year.

Flatt continues a 14-year partnership

with the Chilton Breast Center in Pompton Plains. A way to give back, the teahouse hosts seatings two Thursdays in October, donating proceeds to the Breast Center. This wonderful collaboration even made it into The Record in October 2024 and a Channel 12 news broadcast. High SocieTea has also taken part in Pequannock street fairs.

Flatt and his husband, Hunter, were residents of Pequannock for three years and hope to move back to the area as soon as they can. “We love this town, our old neighbors and the close proximity to the teahouse and our family,” he says. “We can’t wait to be back.”

A Full Life

Besides running the teahouse, Flatt enjoys gardening, eating organic, hiking, raising chickens and hosting guests at his home. He would love to have a big farm someday located in Pequannock Township.

At the top of his priorities list is his family. Hunter is a big supporter of the teahouse and helps with bookkeeping. The pair recently welcomed a beautiful baby boy named Harvey in fall 2024.

“We received so many baby gifts from our customers, it’s been so wonderful; we really are a family,” he says.

Flatt is grateful for many things.

“The teahouse is like a living, breathing entity; it’s a part of me,” he says. “There are so many people who make up our teahouse family. I wouldn’t be who I am

today without Bernadette’s teachings, the coworkers who have since come and gone, the love and support I receive from Hunter, my mom Laura managing it along with Holly and nevertheless Carol and Linda in the back of the house, our waitresses—all the way to the loyal customers who have carried us through 20 years of business.”

Since reservations are made by phone or in person only, be sure to plan in advance if booking a Saturday or Sunday, a holiday seating or party/ shower. Call 973-696-8327. To learn more, visit www.highsocieteanj.com.

Antonietta Henry is a wife, mother of four and owner of Antonietta Henry Photography in Pompton Plains. She enjoys living and working in our beautiful township!

Opposite page, clockwise from top left: The cozy dining room at High SocieTea House. Hunter, Michael and baby Harvey Flatt at the welcoming entrance to High SocieTea House. PTHS students and waitresses at High SocieTea include (from left) Dominique Dygos, MaryFerence, Gianna DeSimoni and Cheyenne Lindsay.

This page: The staff at High SocieTea House includes (from left) Dominique Dygos, Cheyenne Lindsay, Carol Varga, Michael Flatt, Laura Rikowich, Holly Clancy, Gianna DeSimoni and Mary Ference.

School Days

Educator Jim Sarto taps his childhood and decades of professional experience to publish his first novel.

BY DAN PICCOLI

Jim Sarto is a lifelong resident of Pequannock Township and a dedicated educator who is “living the dream.” After a long and distinguished career, he has taken an exciting leap into the world of writing with his debut novel, “Is School Really Out for the Summer?”

How did an experienced educator who spent decades teaching children, adults and professionals end up publishing a book? The journey began unexpectedly during relaxing days at

the Jersey Shore in Brigantine, where Sarto began reflecting on his career and the many memorable moments he had experienced.

While unwinding by the ocean, Sarto started sending emails to himself, capturing these recollections. What began as a simple way to preserve memories soon turned into something much more. “Maybe I have something here for a book,” Sarto thought. And that was the beginning of his literary journey.

The first novel by Jim Sarto (opposite page) contrasts a principal’s demanding summer duties with carefree childhood adventures drawn from Sarto’s own memories.

Below: Sarto (right) as a child fishing at Woodland Lake.

Left: Sarto enjoys a sprinkler with a friend.

Connected to the Community

Sarto’s connection to Pequannock Township runs deep. His parents moved here in 1955. Sarto, along with his wife Karen, also a lifelong resident, raised their four children in the community. The Sartos have been staunch supporters of the town’s educational and social systems.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in music and a master’s in education administration, Sarto went on to become a certified education development specialist and even a private plane pilot. His career spans 35 years in academia at all levels, including 10 years as a music director and a school principal within three notable districts: West Essex Regional, Glen Ridge and Saddle

Brook, where he served for 10 years before retiring. Those years of firsthand experience and leadership laid the groundwork for his novel.

Outside of work, Sarto has been deeply involved in the community, volunteering with several local organizations. He is the current Pequannock Township Chamber of Commerce president for the last seven years, a past president of UNICO and a former board member of NewBridge Services. Sarto has also mentored countless leaders through the New Jersey Leaders-to-Leaders Program, including five school administrators from Pequannock Township.

Inspired by Experiences

When Sarto decided to turn his

collection of stories into a book, he quickly realized that collaborating with a professional publisher could provide greater opportunities.

After reaching out to Simon & Schuster’s Archway Publishing and exchanging emails with the team, it became clear they were intrigued by his stories. After Sarto shared several chapters, received feedback and refined his manuscript, the publisher moved forward with his story.

The process from concept to publication took about three years, and on November 26, 2024, “Is School Really Out for the Summer?” was officially published. Its success surpassed Sarto’s expectations, quickly earning a 5-star rating on Amazon. He attributes the

Longtime educator Jim Sarto’s novel, “Is School Really Out for the Summer?” began when he started recording memories about his career and its year-round challenges.

Jim

and his

Below: Sarto and his wife, Karen (seated), are joined by family and friends at the February book signing. From left are Jim’s nephew, Frank Lakatos Jr.; grandnephews Evan and Nathan; Lakatos’ wife, Tiffany; and Sarto’s longtime friends Kevin and Karen Scucci.

smoothness of the process to his experience managing complex situations throughout his career.

Sarto’s inspiration for the book’s title came from his years in education. He often heard students belting out Alice Cooper’s “School’s Out” (for summer) on the last day of school, signaling the start of their seasonal break. However, as a veteran educator, Sarto’s summers were anything but carefree, leading him to wonder, “Is school really out for the summer?”

The novel’s story takes place largely during the summer of 1964, following Dr. Joey Strat, a seasoned principal at Avenue Ridge High School. While most people view summer as a time to relax, Joey finds himself dealing with a never-ending series of challenges, including unruly students; apathetic and incompetent staff and board members; and demanding, out-of-touch parents.

As Joey navigates these chaotic events, he reflects on his own fifth-grade summer in 1964, which he remembers fondly as a time of endless fun and adventure. Through this back-and-forth between past and present, “Is School Really Out for the Summer?” offers a

behind-the-scenes look at school life from an educator’s perspective.

Success—and What’s Next

Since the book’s release, Sarto has been overwhelmed by the positive response, including invitations for book signings and events in Pequannock, New York City and Los Angeles, to name a few. His book resonates with readers, combining the innocence of childhood with the realities of life as an educator.

Not one to rest on his laurels, Sarto is already working on a sequel that picks up the story during the 1970s and ’80s. The characters from the first book will

return, though readers won’t need to have read the first book to follow the new storyline. The working title of the sequel is “How Did I Become a High School Band Director and Why!,” which is set for release in summer 2026.

If you are looking for a fun and heartwarming read that takes you back to 1964 and offers an insight into the life of a dedicated educator, “Is School Really Out for the Summer?” is a mustread. You can find the book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Archway Publishing from Simon & Schuster, Kindle and via audio books. For more information, visit https://isschoolreallyout.com.

Dan Piccoli is a Pompton Plains resident and retired executive who enjoys time with his family and is the proud owner of 4 Shore Photography LLC.

Left:

Sarto

wife, Karen (seated), with two of their children, Matthew (left) and Grace, at a book-signing at the Pequannock library held on February 18, one of numerous such events.

A Photographer’s Vision

Maureen Brain describes how a morning fitness routine became a calling to share the world’s beauty.

BY MAUREEN BRAIN

As I sit in a quiet corner of my home to pen this article, I am overcome with a sense of gratitude and joy. Not because I was asked to share my story—though I am truly honored to—but rather because it has caused me to ponder the transformative journey I’ve undertaken in recent years, made possible by my faith and the beauty of nature.

What began as a morning fitness routine evolved into a spiritual awakening. I never intended to become a photojournalist; my intent in setting out each morning at the crack of dawn was to find the time to get fit with the added bonus of seeing some beautiful views.

Woodland Lake became my go-to as it was nice and local, with an easy path that I could follow and use to track my steps. As days became weeks and weeks became months, a spark ignited within me that hadn’t been there in years. I was not only becoming physically fit and enthusiastically looking forward to heading out each morning, but I was also becoming increasingly more selfaware and spiritually renewed.

I spent this time peeling back the many layers of my life to get to my core, to get to know me, to allow those quiet conversations with God to become the most life-giving moments of my life.

Photojournalist

In the author’s words: This awe-inspiring Woodland Lake sunrise launched me on the path to becoming a photojournalist.

The Start of a Journey Morning after morning, God‘s glorious creation was displayed in such magnificent manner. Even on gray, rainy mornings there was a story to be told: tiny droplets of moisture clinging delicately to a spiderweb; swans diving for food while tending to their cygnets; early risers like me taking advantage of a misty morning almost completely obscured by fog casting their lines into the lake in the hopes of reeling in a big one. I discovered the serenity of Woodland Lake and the splendor of its surroundings. It became my sanctuary.

As I captured the essence of each day, from majestic sunrises and sunsets to the tranquility of the lake’s wildlife, I realized that these moments were not just for me but for everyone to enjoy. It became evident that if I could feel such elation at seeing these wonderful sights, that others may, too. This newfound passion led me to share my photos with the community.

On a whim, in July 2018, I submitted a couple photos of a sunrise that I had taken on my iPhone to the “Pequannock Township, New Jersey” Facebook page. In the exceptionally beautiful dawn, I had captured

the silhouettes of two fishing enthusiasts launching into Woodland Lake. What a perfect moment in time to be outdoors and witness!

It was nice to see that my post was well received, and I was heartened by the response. I really wasn’t sure what to expect, and my aim wasn’t for “likes;” it was to share the magic of the day. Suddenly I had a new sense of purpose. I discovered pretty quickly that we could all benefit from a daily dose of what’s good and right in this world. This became especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

Favorite Subjects

Sunrises, sunsets, flora, fauna and insects are all fair game. I enjoy mixing it up and choosing various locations within the township. Photographing

structures is fun too, especially those of historical significance. The First Reformed Church of Pompton Plains is one of my favorite subjects to focus on. The entire church campus, including the cemetery, has so much beauty and history that beckons me.

I prefer to use my iPhone for landscape photography and my Canon camera and a 100 mm macro lens for close-up shots. I try to submit daily to the “Pequannock Township, New Jersey” Facebook page. As of this writing, that equates to over 1,900 posts. Sometimes I will skip a day or two depending upon the weather. Some days I will sneak in a double post. When there’s so much to see and share, it’s hard not to.

Most of the time, I add copy to go with the photos. I range from devotional to whimsical; it just depends

Opposite page, clockwise from top left: It’s transparent that this juvenile mute swan is proud of his plumage. This praying mantis, a garden diva that I aptly named Ophelia, loved to strike a pose and be my muse. Greenview Park’s fountain becomes a stunning focal point, bathed in the warm glow of the golden hour backed by crisp fall foliage.

Above: Grace Chapel looks enchanting, like a fairytale, following an afternoon snowstorm.

on the day and what I feel in my heart. It’s a lot of fun and fulfills the third grader in me who wanted to be a greeting card writer for Hallmark.

I’m asked often why I still do this after all these years. The answer lies in the fact that each day is a blessing. How lovely it is for me to be able to share these captured moments from around Pequannock Township with all of you.

It is my intent to motivate, uplift and put smiles on your faces. Having the health, ability and platform to do so is something that I don’t take for granted. Today, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue sharing these moments, inspiring others to find joy and peace in the beauty that surrounds us.

For 37 years, Maureen Brain has been a resident of Pequannock Township, where she and her husband have raised three children. Photography, hiking and painting keep her days busy.

Above: Witness the majestic splendor of dawn as it awakens the Pequannock Valley. Top right: We’re all like leaves, destined to fall—but grace and love are the ultimate refresh button.

Calling All Bird Lovers

Bird-watching is booming. Here’s how to get started— beginning with a trip to The Backyard Birding Store.

BY MARY SHUMEYKO

Did you know that bird-watching (also known as birding) can be beneficial to your mental health? Psychologists note that bird exposure has positive effects for those experiencing stress and that birding can have a long-lasting impact on well-being.

No wonder birding has been soaring in popularity. About 96 million Americans engage in birdwatching—more than a third of the population, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The vast majority of birders (about 95%) get their feathered fixes from the comfort of their own homes. (See sidebar on the next page.)

Now backyard birders have a fresh resource for products, equipment and advice to help them attract and enjoy local winged wonders. To engage in some bird

therapy, visit one of Pequannock’s newest shops, The Backyard Birding Store Nature & Gift Shop, located on Route 23 South.

When stepping into this charming place, customers are greeted by sights and sounds of nature. Owners Andrew and Joanne Marino have created a unique and captivating display of practical items and treats for connecting with birds and the natural world. Combining their backgrounds in education and finance, the Marinos turned a hobby into a delightful business.

They hope to meet like-minded folks who love birding, whether they’re novices or experienced. One of the couple’s goals is to build a community that shares ideas, stories and sightings.

Owners Joanne and Andrew Marino ring up a sale.

A Birding Bounty

The shop sells a large assortment of seeds as well as cakes, suets and cylinders in various sizes and flavors for attracting different avian species. One entire section of the store is dedicated to specific types of birds such as hummingbirds and orioles, with tips on coaxing them to stop and snack.

Birdhouses, accessories and shepherds’ hooks (for hanging feeders) are arrayed along the shop’s walls, offering a variety of products in different shapes and sizes.

The diverse inventory makes it clear that birding can be done from a wide variety of settings, whether it be a kitchen windowsill, a small terrace or a several-acre estate. For more enjoyment (for both you and the birds), there are even birdbaths with heaters (think of an outdoor hot tub for winged guests).

Specialty items also abound: You’ll

find bird-themed books, puzzles, dish towels, wine accessories, hats, windchimes and walking sticks, just to name a few. These are perfect for housewarming or hostess gifts. And the stuffed bird toys all chirp in their “native languages”—ideal for Easter baskets.

The Backyard Birding Store just opened in February and is more than a seed store, the owners state. They hope to enable you to enjoy birding in your own backyard. So check out the store to chat, experiment and gain a better appreciation of nature.

To learn more, follow The Backyard Birding Store on Instagram or Facebook or visit the store’s website at www.thebackyardbirdingstore.com.

Mary Shumeyko is a retired Pequannock teacher who helps at her church and the Pequannock Library. Traveling, running, reading and spending time with family fill her free time.

BIRDING: A BEGINNER’S GUIDE

Like natural activities such as walking, birding doesn’t necessarily require a lot of gear—but plenty of tools, supplies and equipment can enrich your experience. Whether you prefer a minimalist or well-equipped approach, it’s easy to begin with these steps:

• Go outdoors. Birds are virtually everywhere. Start paying attention to them and their sounds. Try learning to identify birds by songs alone.

• Offer food. Backyard feeders can bring birds close enough to observe from a window. Ask suppliers for advice on the best seed or feed combinations for birds you most want to view.

• Get guidance. Bird books can help you identify birds by their size, shape, plumage, natural range, beaks and other factors. Digital apps provide similar information that’s accessible virtually anywhere.

• Buy binoculars.

Magnification isn’t strictly necessary but can transform the birding experience by bringing birds into closer view.

• Connect with a community. Most birders love to share, and you can learn a lot from fellow enthusiasts about where birds can be found and whether they are common in your area or— more excitingly—not.

• Roam. The more different kinds of locations and habitats you visit, the greater the variety of birds you’ll see.

• Get up early. They’re not called early birds for nothing. Heading out at dawn lets you observe birds when they’re hungry and highly active.

-Richard Laliberte

The Backyard Birding Store offers products for feathered and nonfeathered friends alike, including houses, feeders and baths for birds, along with a variety of suets and seeds.